<p>The plan to develop the boggy, poorly drained site on the Timahoe Road, Portlaoise as an amenity park was commissioned in <strong>1999</strong>. &nbsp;It was decided to develop the park as an ecological area with emphasis on creating an area diverse in wildlife. &nbsp;On <strong>16th June 2000</strong> the Peoples Park was officially opened by Mr. Joe Dunne M.C.C., Cathaoirleach, Laois County Council.</p>

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<p>The park is bounded on one side by &lsquo;The Downs&rsquo; an Esker feature and on the other side by the River Triogue.&nbsp; The soil underneath the top layer is marl clay which was ideal to use as a liner for the lake which was formed when the River Triogue was diverted through the central area of the Park.&nbsp; Footbridges were installed to allow access around the lake and over the river.</p>

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<p>The planting used throughout the park is mainly native species of trees and shrubs with some non-native trees planted for their ornamental value and their suitability as parkland trees.&nbsp; These trees and shrubs have been used to form woodlands on the boundary of the park acting as a screen to housing developments in the area.&nbsp; Many wildflowers have grown in the natural environment surrounding the lake.&nbsp; Fish can bee seen jumping for flies in the lake and in the River Triogue from time to time.</p>

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<p>There are many different birds to be seen in the park, singing in the trees or on the edge of the river.&nbsp; Swans, Mallard ducks, Little Grebe, Heron and Water Hens can be seen either swimming in the lake or along the river or sometimes sitting on the grass enjoying the sunshine.&nbsp; The island is an ideal safe place for the ducks to nest and hatch their eggs.</p>

<p><strong>Playground Name:</strong> &quot;Solas Na Greine&quot; - Sunshine Playground</p>

<p><strong>Location:</strong> The playground is situated in the People&rsquo;s Park, Timahoe Road, Portlaoise, County Laois.</p>

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<p><strong>Opening Hours:</strong> <strong>8am &ndash; 9pm</strong> summer season&nbsp;and <strong>8am &ndash; 6pm</strong> in winter.</p>

<p><strong>Features:</strong> A Multi Swings Unit, A Sand Play Area, A Cable Runaway, Springers &amp; Seesaw, Multislide and Climbing Unit,Whippee Springer, a bicycle stand, a water front, roundabout and a picnic area.</p>

<p><strong>Remember - Play safe and have loads of fun</strong></p>

<p><strong>When using the playground please respect the equipment and obey all the rules.</strong></p>
